(An) energy innovator without energy

Abstract

In a new era of low-carbon energy regime, how can a country with scarce natural resources be sustainable? By framing “an energy innovator without energy” as a suggested direction for the country, this dissertation argues that policy innovations to improve the reliability of energy innovation system are critical for a successful energy transition. By conducting a panel data analysis on energy R&D in OECD countries, a comparative analysis on energy R&D and technological capability of five major energy countries, and a historical case study on the developments of energy innovation system and national energy policy in Korea, this research explores various factors influencing national energy technology policy decisions on different levels of analyses. It concludes with emphasizing on the importance of the consistency of R&D policy and innovative policy options for the role of the conventional energy sector in the new energy regime and asks for more insightful examinations on the maturity of energy technology for more effective policy options.